Puerto Iguazú is the Argentine city closest to Iguazu Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. But beyond the famous waterfalls, this destination offers plenty of activities and excursions worth exploring.
In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Puerto Iguazú if you have a few extra days: from cultural and ecological attractions to day trips to historical and natural sites in the Misiones province.
👉 If you’re looking for detailed guides to visit the falls, check out my posts: Complete guide to visiting Iguazul Falls in Argentina & Complete guide to visiting Iguazu Falls in Brazil
On this post you will find:
Things to do in Puerto Iguazú
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Hito Tres Fronteras
The triple border between Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay is a symbolic spot where the Iguazú and Paraná rivers meet. Each country has a monument painted with its flag colors.
On the Argentine side, the Hito Tres Fronteras offers a small obelisk and viewpoints over the other two countries. Every evening at 8:00 and 8:30 pm, there’s a light, water, and music show.
Left bank: Paraguay – Right bank: Brazil – Photo taken from Argentina.
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La Aripuca
An eco-tourism project designed to raise awareness about natural resources and showcase local culture. La Aripuca is a giant wooden structure inspired by traditional Guaraní traps once used for hunting birds.
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Güira Oga (wildlife rescue center)
This rescue and rehabilitation center takes care of animals from the Misiones jungle, such as toucans, eagles, monkeys, and small wild cats.
The visit is guided, making it an educational and authentic experience—perfect for families and nature lovers.
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Jardín de los Colibríes (Hummingbird Garden)
A small private garden where dozens of hummingbirds and colorful birds live. A unique and peaceful stop if you have some free time.
- La casa de las botellas (house of bottles)
A sustainable project showcasing a house built entirely from recycled bottles. It demonstrates how plastic and glass can be reused to create livable spaces. This Puerto Iguazú tour includes a stop at Casa de las Botellas.
- Ice Bar
An ice bar where everything—from the walls to the glasses—is made of ice. The temperature is around -10 °C (14 °F), and the entry includes unlimited drinks for a set time. A fun and quirky experience!
- Fly Park
An adventure park with zip-lines, hanging bridges, and climbing games. Great for families or travelers looking for a bit of adrenaline without leaving the city.
Excursions and tours from Puerto Iguazú
Puerto Iguazú es la base ideal para explorar otros atractivos de Misiones y la región.
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San Ignacio Ruins & Wanda Mines
The San Ignacio Miní ruins are a UNESCO site and one of the best-preserved Jesuit missions in Argentina, founded in the 17th century. Located about 240 km from Puerto Iguazú, they’re often combined with a visit to the Wanda Mines, famous for their semi-precious stones.
👉 The easiest way to visit without a car is by joining a San Ignacio & Wanda Mines tour
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Boat ride on the Iguazú River
A unique experience to admire the jungle from the water, sailing along the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
👉 Sunset cruise from Puerto Iguazú
- Shopping at the Duty Free shop and Ciudad del Este
If it rains or you’re looking for something different, shopping can be a fun option. Just minutes from downtown is the Puerto Iguazú Duty-Free Shop, with perfumes, electronics, chocolates, and drinks at tax-free prices. This shopping tour in Puerto Iguazú includes transfers from your hotel.
For even bigger bargains, cross the Friendship Bridge to Ciudad del Este (Paraguay), famous for its massive shopping malls. Prices can be very low—though not everything is “official.”
Where to stay in Puerto Iguazú
Puerto Iguazú has a wide range of accommodation: from budget hostels to luxury hotels in the middle of the jungle.
- O2 Hotel Iguazú: this was the hotel where I stayed with my boyfriend for 4 nights and we were fascinated. The O2 Iguazú is a new hotel, with all the facilities, located in the center of Puerto Iguazú about 6 minutes from the bus terminal. It is also close to restaurants and shops. The hotel has a rooftop pool overlooking the Iguazu River, gym, sauna, and a restaurant located on the ground floor. If you are looking for a nice place but don’t want to spend too much this hotel is perfect. Prices of O2 Hotel Iguazú in Booking.
- Gran Melia Iguazú: if you want to experience the Iguazú Falls at its fullest, the Gran Melia Iguazú is the only hotel located inside the Iguazú National Park in Argentina. From the window of your room you can see the waterfalls! It is a truly unique hotel and obviously has all the comforts and an excellent service. Prices of Gran Melia Iguazú on Booking.
For more details, read my post: Where to stay when visiting Iguazu Falls?
Useful information for visiting Puerto Iguazú
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How many days do you need? Ideally 3 full days: 1 for the Argentine side of the falls, 1 for the Brazilian side, and 1 for extra activities or excursions.
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Is Puerto Iguazú safe? Yes, it’s a small, tourist-friendly city. Just follow basic precautions (avoid walking alone late at night, don’t show valuables).
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How to get around: Taxis, remis (private cars), and local buses connect the city with the National Park.
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Travel insurance: Always recommended when traveling abroad. 👉 Get a 5% discount on your travel insurance here.
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